Compound Has Restored Cisplatin Sensitivity in Cancer Cells
Researchers identified a compound that helped bladder cancer cells respond to chemotherapy in laboratory models.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Cancer
Scientists have found that the compound dihydroartemisinin (DHA) can re-sensitize drug-resistant bladder cancer cells to cisplatin treatment. This preclinical development offers a potential new path for addressing chemotherapy resistance in cancer care.
Why it matters
Cisplatin resistance significantly limits the effectiveness of current chemotherapy regimens for bladder cancer. This finding highlights a potential strategy to overcome that resistance and improve treatment responses.
In a preclinical study, dihydroartemisinin at 10 µg/mL restored cisplatin sensitivity in resistant 5637&Cis cells compared to parental cells. The results showed a time-dependent reversal of drug resistance, achieving a 5.14-fold effect after 72 hours.
The details
Dihydroartemisinin appears to work by suppressing the PI3K/AKT/ABCB1 signaling axis, which helps cancer cells survive chemotherapy. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest the compound binds to ABCB1, a protein that typically pumps chemotherapy drugs out of cells. By inhibiting this protein and reducing P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux, the compound allows cisplatin to remain effective within the cancer cells.
Timeline
Reversal fold of 1.19 observed at 24 hours.
Reversal fold of 2.07 observed at 48 hours.
Reversal fold of 5.14 observed at 72 hours.
Health Landscape
This study follows a pattern of research into the PI3K/AKT/ABCB1 signaling axis, which has become a primary target for overcoming multi-drug resistance in oncology. It builds on ongoing efforts to repurpose existing compounds to enhance the efficacy of established chemotherapy agents.
This research is in the early, preclinical stage and is not yet applicable to human clinical care. Patients undergoing chemotherapy for bladder cancer should discuss any questions regarding treatment resistance or new trials with their oncologist.
The takeaway
The study suggests that targeting specific signaling pathways can successfully re-sensitize resistant cancer cells to chemotherapy. Patients should continue to monitor their treatment progress with their physician and follow established protocols for managing bladder cancer.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest research and standard treatments for Cancer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
